Digoxin

Definition

Digoxin is a medication derived from the leaves of the foxglove plant, primarily used to treat heart conditions such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It works by increasing the force of heart contractions and slowing down the heart rate, making it effective in managing symptoms associated with these conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Digoxin enhances cardiac output by increasing intracellular calcium levels in the heart muscle cells, which strengthens contractions.
2. It has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small, requiring careful monitoring of blood levels.
3. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and visual disturbances like yellow-green halos around lights.
4. Electrolyte imbalances, particularly low potassium levels, can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity, making it crucial to monitor electrolyte levels in patients.
5. Digoxin can also interact with various medications, including diuretics and certain antibiotics, which may enhance its effects or increase the risk of toxicity.

Review Questions

• How does digoxin improve cardiac function in patients with heart failure?
  • Digoxin improves cardiac function by increasing the strength of heart contractions and slowing down the heart rate. This is particularly beneficial for patients with heart failure as it enhances cardiac output, allowing for better blood circulation. By influencing intracellular calcium levels in heart muscle cells, digoxin helps the heart pump more effectively despite its underlying weaknesses.
• What are the potential risks associated with digoxin use in patients with electrolyte imbalances?
  • Patients with electrolyte imbalances, especially low potassium levels, are at increased risk for digoxin toxicity. Low potassium can enhance the effects of digoxin on the heart, potentially leading to dangerous arrhythmias or other serious complications. Therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor electrolyte levels in patients on digoxin therapy to prevent adverse effects.
• Evaluate the importance of therapeutic drug monitoring for digoxin in clinical practice and its implications for patient safety.
  • Therapeutic drug monitoring for digoxin is crucial due to its narrow therapeutic index, where small variations in drug levels can lead to either therapeutic failure or toxicity. By regularly measuring serum digoxin levels, healthcare providers can adjust dosages appropriately to ensure efficacy while minimizing risks. This practice significantly enhances patient safety by preventing adverse reactions and optimizing treatment outcomes for those with heart failure or atrial fibrillation.

Related terms

Cardiac Glycosides: A class of medications that includes digoxin, known for their ability to improve heart contractility and control heart rhythm.

Heart Failure: A chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fatigue, fluid retention, and shortness of breath.

Atrial Fibrillation:

A common type of arrhythmia characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate, which can lead to poor blood flow and increased risk of stroke.